Day Six: Robinson Cano

Age: 28 Bats: Left Throws: Right Height: 6'0" Weight: 175

Robinson Cano was signed by the New York Yankees as an amateur free agent in 2001. Cano has been a part of the New York Yankees since 2005 and has flourished under the bright lights of New York City. Cano played for the Tampa Yankees in 2003 for 90 games before being promoted to the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, the Trenton Thunder.

During the 2003 season, Cano had 390 at bats for the T-Yanks. He hit for a .276 batting average, with five homeruns, 50 runs scored, and 50 RBI. Not only did Cano shine with the bat, but also with his glove. In 88 games played at 2nd base, Cano contributed 250 assists to go along with only 13 errors. Cano's ability did not go unnoticed as he quickly progressed through the ranks.

Cano only spent one more season in the minor leagues before being promoted to the New York Yankees for good in 2005. In his rookie season he hit .297, with 14 homeruns, and 62 RBI in 132 games. Those numbers were good enough to earn Cano Rookie of the Year honors.

Cano has been one of the best second basemen in baseball over the last 6 seasons and he has only added to his achievements since his rookie campaign. In 2006 he was awarded the American League Silver Slugger award, when he hit for a .342 batting average, 15 homeruns, and 78 RBI. This past year Cano put together one of his best seasons in the Big Leagues. He had a .320 batting average, and a career best in homeruns (29), and RBI (109). Not only was it one of the best seasons for Cano, but it was arguably one of the best seasons for a second baseman. His 2010 season added to his accolades with an election to his first American League All Star Team, first American League Gold Glove award, and his second American League Silver Slugger Award.

Cano is poised to great things in a Yankees uniform. His career numbers through six seasons (1,075 hits, .309 Batting Average, 116 Homeruns, and 503 RBI) only speaks to the remarkable baseball player Cano is on the field. Cano is proving to be an asset on the field as well as off. This past winter, in the Dominican Republic, Cano helped instruct underprivileged children the fundamentals of baseball. It has been a pleasure to watch Cano grow into the young professional that he is today. It is always good to see a former Tampa Yankees player make it, and still have the heart to remember where he came from. The Tampa Yankees want to wish Cano the best of luck for the 2011 season.